How to stay safe from impersonation fraud 

Impersonation fraud happens when a fraudster poses as someone you trust, like a bank employee, government official, or vendor, to lower your guard and trick you into: 

• Sharing sensitive account or payment information 
• Granting access to your bank account 
• Authorizing a transfer of funds 

With the use of Generative AI, impersonation scams are becoming more sophisticated. Fraudsters are now able to create fake emails, mimic credible websites, and simulate realistic phone and video calls. Scammers sometimes mimic official sign-in pages to trick you into entering your credentials, allowing them to capture sensitive information. These fakes can be difficult to spot, which is why it’s important to know what to look for.

To protect yourself and your company and stay one step ahead of scammers: 

• Always verify the website URL before entering any sign in credentials. 
• Bookmark the official BMO Online Banking for Business link for quick and secure access. 
• Look for the FDIC message on the BMO Online Banking for Business sign in page 
• Be cautious of unexpected communications, even if they appear to come from trusted sources. 
• Double check that our logo appears in the top blue section of the BMO Online Banking for Business sign in page 

Follow this checklist to stay safe: 

Verify Information 

If someone contacts you and claims to be from a legitimate company or agency, hang up and call them back using the official phone number on their website or your account statement.  

Never Share Passwords or PINs 

Keep your access codes, passwords, and Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) secret and never share them with anyone.  

Be Cautious with Links and Attachments 

Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown or suspicious senders, websites, or ads.  

Remember: 

If it is UNEXPECTED and URGENT, DON’T RESPOND. Instead, REPORT IT. 

We’re here to help 

If you suspect that you or your business has been targeted or compromised, get in touch with us immediately via the “Contact Us” section in Online Banking for Business. 

For more information and practical tips to help protect your business, see our BMO Security Centre